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For Immediate Release
February 1, 2023

CONTACT FDOT: FDOT COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE
 


Governor DeSantis Makes Historic Investment in Florida’s Transportation Future by Committing $14.7B in Framework for Freedom Budget Proposal 

 

TALLAHASSEE, Fla – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis unveiled his Framework for Freedom Budget for Fiscal Year 2023-2024. The proposed $14.7 billion budget prioritizes a historic investment in transportation infrastructure across the state of Florida. This investment is in addition to the Moving Florida Forward Infrastructure Initiative, which invests $4 billion to expedite 20 transportation projects to relieve congestion across the state, which will be leveraged for a total of $7 billion. This budget proposal directly addresses the immediate need for congestion relief and perpetual safety on our roadways, supports resiliency in existing and future projects, and keeps the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) as a national leader in transportation technology, all while supporting a robust and active supply chain.

“The magnitude of Governor DeSantis’ proposed investments in transportation infrastructure is historic and truly reiterates his commitment to Floridians’ quality of life. As our population continues to increase, it’s imperative for that growth to be reflected in a diverse and resilient transportation network,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “Governor DeSantis’ Framework for Freedom Budget will address congestion and enhance safety on major roadways, as well as reaffirm his dedication to facilitating a healthy supply chain, promoting economic growth, and preparing Florida for the future.”

Governor DeSantis’ Framework for Freedom Budget Proposal provides $13.4 billion for projects in FDOT’s Five-Year Work Program, a collaborative plan of strategic transportation projects that includes: 

  • $5.4 billion for highway construction to include 119 new lane miles
  • $1.6 billion in resurfacing to include 2,657 lane miles
  • $553.2 million for scheduled repairs of 64 bridges and replacement of 19 bridges
  • $150.5 million in seaport investments
  • $405.8 million in aviation investments
  • $807.4 million in rail and transit investments
  • $236.5 million for safety initiatives
  • $167.3 million for community trail projects

Several key projects that further strengthen Florida’s transportation infrastructure are included in this historic budget proposal. This includes:

  • $240.8 million for a new bridge over U.S. Highway 98 over St. Andrews Bay Intercoastal Waterway in Northwest Florida,
  • $44.1 million for widening State Road 15 in Northeast Florida,
  • $161.6 million for widening U.S. Highway 301 in East Central Florida,
  • $459.4 million for phase one Westshore Interchange construction in West Central Florida,
  • $9.7 million for State Road 31 safety improvements in Southwest Florida,
  • $877.4 million for direct connections and improvements from SW 10th Street to Interstate 95’s express and general use lanes in Southeast Florida, and
  • $649.9 million for the Golden Glades interchange to connect six major arterial roadways and facilities in South Florida.

Significant investments in the Florida Turnpike Enterprise are also proposed throughout the state, including $338 million to widen the Turnpike from U.S. Highway 27 to the County Road 470 Interchange in Lake County.

In addition, Governor DeSantis has announced the Moving Florida Forward Infrastructure Initiative. This proposal would invest an additional $7 billion to prioritize and accelerate the completion of 20 critical transportation infrastructure projects. The proposal combines $4 billion of General Revenue funding with innovative transportation project financing strategies that will allow FDOT to leverage an additional $3 billion over the next four years. More information on the Moving Florida Forward Infrastructure Initiative can be found at FDOT.gov/MovingFloridaForward.

FDOT’s mission is to provide a safe and efficient transportation system that ensures the mobility of people and goods, enhances economic prosperity, and preserves the quality of the state’s environment and communities. Together with communities and partners, FDOT strives to ensure Floridians are proud that the Sunshine State is the best place to live, learn, work, and play, and that residents and visitors alike are offered the best transportation system and a variety of travel options. For more information, visit FDOT.gov.

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The Florida Department of Transportation’s mission is to provide a safe transportation system that ensures the mobility of people and goods, enhances economic prosperity and preserves the quality of the state’s environment and communities. The department is committed to building a transportation system that not only fits the current needs of Florida’s residents and visitors but also enhances mobility throughout the state to accommodate its consistent and rapid growth. The unique nature of the Sunshine State and its year-round warm climate provides numerous opportunities to achieve the department’s mission through multiple transportation modes including highways/streets, air, rail, sea, spaceports, transit, and the ever-expanding deployment of bicycle & pedestrian facilities.